Dallas loves big flavors and big portions. Thankfully, the city's Mexican food, BBQ, and international neighborhoods offer incredible cheap eats. Here's how to eat well in Dallas without the Uptown prices.
Tex-Mex & Tacos
El Si Hay
Legendary breakfast tacos in Oak Cliff. The barbacoa is incredible. Cash only.
Fuel City Tacos
Gas station tacos that are famous citywide. Open 24/7. See the longhorns.
Trompo
The al pastor from the trompo is outstanding. Small spot, big flavors.
Meso Maya
Elevated interior Mexican at reasonable prices. Great lunch specials.
BBQ
Pecan Lodge
Famous Dallas BBQ. Lines are long, brisket is excellent. Worth the hype.
Lockhart Smokehouse
Central Texas-style BBQ. The beef rib is massive.
Slow Bone
Solid BBQ with great sides. Less famous, shorter lines than Pecan Lodge.
More Budget Gems
Kalachandji's
Vegetarian buffet at a Hare Krishna temple. Peaceful, delicious, all-you-can-eat.
La Banqueta
Taco stand with some of the best street tacos in Dallas.
Maple & Motor
Craft burgers in a no-frills setting. Great value for quality.
Zenna Thai & Japanese
Solid Thai and sushi at reasonable prices. Good lunch specials.
Dallas Budget Eating Tips
- Oak Cliff: Best cheap tacos in Dallas
- Deep Ellum: Mix of cheap and expensive—explore
- Richardson: Great Asian food at better prices than Dallas proper
- Happy hours: Dallas restaurants have aggressive happy hour deals
- Lunch specials: Even upscale spots have affordable lunch menus
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